Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, perfectly spiced carrot cake bar topped with luxuriously creamy cream cheese frosting - a dessert so irresistible, it'll have everyone begging for seconds! These aren't just ordinary bars; they're a magical combination of classic comfort and gourmet delight that transforms the humble carrot cake into a handheld treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality deliciousness right from your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine grated carrots, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan for about 30-40 minutes at room temperature.
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cake has cooled, use the parchment paper edges to lift the cake out of the pan. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the frosting to set. Cut into 12 equal bars before serving.
Tips
- Grate your carrots fresh for maximum moisture and flavor - pre-shredded carrots can be too dry.
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest frosting.
- Don't overmix the batter; stir just until ingredients are combined to keep the bars tender.
- Use parchment paper overhang for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
- For extra flavor, consider adding optional mix-ins like chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter.
- Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting.
- Store bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 55mg
